Optimized learning order
Learn high-value characters first in a progression that builds naturally from what you already know.
Writing practice
Practice writing from memory so recognition turns into usable skill.
Pronunciation and meaning
Reinforce how characters sound and what they mean as you learn them.
Scheduled reviews
Review the right material at the right time so more of it sticks.
A closer look
Compounds vs Skritter
See how Compounds compares with Skritter, and decide which learning approach fits you.
Screenshots
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A focused tool for simplified hanzi
Compounds is for learners who want to build recognition and writing skills in simplified Chinese characters. Its built-in progression combines character frequency and structural relationships, so you can follow a path instead of choosing a deck first.
Character study is one part of learning Mandarin. The app focuses on characters, their pronunciation and meaning; use reading, listening, and conversation practice alongside it.
How to practice Chinese characters with Compounds
- Follow the guided path to a new simplified character.
- Study its pronunciation and meaning, then practice writing it from memory.
- Return to scheduled reviews to revisit characters you have already studied.
Core Features
- Optimized learning order. Learn high-value characters first in a progression that builds naturally from what you already know.
- Writing practice. Practice writing from memory so recognition turns into usable skill.
- Pronunciation and meaning. Reinforce how characters sound and what they mean as you learn them.
- Scheduled reviews. Review the right material at the right time so more of it sticks.
- Private by default. No tracking. No account needed.
Research behind the learning order
The learning order takes inspiration from research on combining character usage frequency and structural relationships to organize Chinese character study.
Subscription
A subscription is required for full access to all features.
Terms of Service: Apple Standard EULA
Chinese character learning questions
Does Compounds teach simplified or traditional Chinese?
Compounds focuses on simplified Chinese characters. Its learning path is built around common simplified hanzi.
Can a beginner use Compounds?
Yes. The guided path is intended for learners starting with Chinese characters as well as people filling gaps in their existing knowledge.
Does Compounds include character writing practice?
Yes. Writing characters from memory is part of the study flow, alongside pronunciation, meaning, and scheduled review.
Do I need an account or a subscription?
Compounds works without creating an account. A subscription is required for full access to all features.